1. Words Come Alive: Haikus
By: Marlina Fraterman

2. An old silent pond…
A frog jumps into the pond,
Splash! Silence again.
-Matsuo Basho

3. Haiku History Japanese poetry
Seventh century: waka ( , 31 phonetic units)
Most recognized form, recognized as word specialists
Tanka in ninth century

4. Haiku History (continued)
Most famous poet: Matsuo Basho
Created more than 1000 verse-poems and taught over 2000 students
After 100 years, declared saint of the haiku and known as most famous poet in Japan
Masaoka Shiki focused on and renamed it haiku
Became well-known in US in 1950s

5. The “Rules” of Haiku
3 lines
5-7-5
17 syllables
About nature

6. Misconceptions 5-7-5 / 17 syllables is not set in stone
Does not have to be about nature

7. LET’S LOOK AT HAIKUS!
Winter seclusion - Listening, that evening, To the rain in the mountain.
Kobayashi Issa
Don’t weep, insects – Lovers, stars themselves, Must part.
In the cicada's cry No sign can foretell How soon it must die.
- Matsuo Bashō
My life, - How much more of it remains? The night is brief.
Masaoka Shiki
Over-ripe sushi, The Master Is full of regret.
Yosa Buson
I kill an ant and realize my three children have been watching.
- Kato Shuson

8. Let’s practice!

9. Group Work
In groups, look at pictures assigned to your group and create 2-3 haikus based on the picture
When we meet back up, share the best haiku your group came up with
Group 1:
Group 2:
Group 3:
Group 4:

10. Group One

11. Group Two

12. Group Three

13. Group Four

14. Review What are the main “rules” of haikus?
3 lines, about nature, 5-7-5, 17 syllables
Which “rules” are actually common misconceptions?
About nature, 5-7-5, 17 syllables
Who was the most famous poet in Japan, writing over 1,000 verse-poems?
Matsuo Basho